because I am - IRONMOMME: 22 weeks till IRONMAN

Duane offered to make me some business type cards that have 'answers' on them to some of my most frequently asked questions regarding my Ironman quest. . . . because in the moment, I become speechless - which is a symptom of my being an introvert. . . . sigh. The other thing I have noticed is that after they ask their question . . . most people just have to give me their opinion, have the last word - and I need to get used the the idea that they like to tell me I am crazy, not any fun, or they just plain shake their head . . . .

FAQ's and comments . . .

1. Why are you doing an Ironman? It sure doesn't sound like any fun to me!

2. How far do you have to go? Isn't there a word for that? Masachist I think. . .

3. So are you ready? How is your training going? Do you feel like you could do it today - you know, if you had to?

4. So after this Ironman thing, will you be finished with this craziness? You know, do something else?

Once I let these things roll off my back, I try to think of my answers. . . the stuff in brackets are just my smart alec thoughts - I would never SAY that to people. . . yet. . . .

1. "The best moments in our lives usually occur when a person's body or mind is stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish something difficult and worthwhile. Optimal experience is thus something we make happen." - Mihaly Csikszentmihaly, Flow

2. Ironman = 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run.

Panama City Florida. November 3, 2012.

Race Starts @ 7am. Race Closes @ Midnight.

17 Hour Time Limit.

3. I love my training, I love what I am learning about myself. I did what I was supposed to do today, which makes me ready for tomorrow and that inevitably will make me ready for November 3. (Are YOU ready for what you are going to do on November 3rd??)

4. Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha. (Not sure what else they are hoping that I will do. . . but truly. . . after Ironman. . . I will be able to do ANYTHING! No???)

So we had some excitement this week. Emma got her e-mail from Ironman with her volunteer assignment on it. She is working from 5am - 9am in the swim. Not sure exactly what she will be doing - if she will be in the ocean with us?? - but she will be there - earning her Ironman Volunteer t-shirt! I guess that is where they put you when you tell them you are a lifeguard! She is super - excited! What a GREAT DAY this is going to be!

The very next day - I got MY Ironman e-mail. Which interestingly enough used the attention grabber "ARE YOU READY?" I want to ask them the same question! Are THEY ready for 2500 athletes and countless volunteers and spectators? Sheesh! We are not supposed to be ready YET - we all still have 22 weeks to go!!!

Event Services

A MESSAGE FROM THE RACE DIRECTOR

On behalf of the entire IRONMAN Florida team, I would like to welcome you to the 2012 IRONMAN Florida. As you test your endurance and dedication on one of the most challenging days of your life, know that you will be doing so with support from thousands of Bay County citizens.

I would like to thank the cities of Panama City Beach and Panama City, Bay County, Tyndall Air Force Base, the Naval Support Activity and the countless volunteer organizations for their continued support of this event.

I salute you in your pursuit of the IRONMAN dream and I look forward to hosting you and your families at the 2012 IRONMAN Florida. May the road rise to meet you, may the wind always be at your back and may the sun shine warm upon your face.

Make it a great day!

Ben Rausa
Race Director, IRONMAN Florida

TRAINING ON COURSE

When in town training, please be respectful of the local communities, as well of the rules of the road. IRONMAN athletes are great ambassadors of the sport; please keep this in mind during your training rides and runs.

RACE 411
What you need to know...

• Prepare for cool temperatures in the morning (low to mid 40’s and warm afternoon upper 70’s to low 80’s) and even cooler after sunset.
• These might appear to be fast, flat courses but don’t assume it’s easy, winds will almost always play a role on the bike course.
• We have an enthusiastic volunteer base from all walks of life including many local military members in our community.
• “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but foot prints!“ Please enjoy the world’s most beautiful beaches here in Panama City Beach.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Hotels
Click here to view a list of official hotel partners for the 2012 IRONMAN Florida. Remember to check the website for updates, as we are continuously adding to it!
Bike Shipping
Let TriBike Transport’s hassle-free shipping service get your bike to and from the event.
Wetsuit Rentals
Don't own a wetsuit? An Aqua Sphere wetsuit rental is a great option. Have a great swim in an awesome wetsuit for as low as $45!